MachineryLink

In our ongoing search for capacity-expanding attachments for side-by-side utility vehicles, we have come across a trio of products from Southern Outdoor Technologies headquartered in West Point, Miss.

First, is the "Double Decker" attachment. Suitable for late model Polaris Rangers with round stake pockets in the bed (large and small Ranger beds), this is a raised, or second level, cargo box. Mounted above the Ranger's cargo box, the Double Decker has a weight capacity of 50 pounds. The upper rack is made of steel tubing and is powder-coated for outdoor use. The Double Decker includes sidewalls and a removable tailgate. The unit requires no tools for attachment or removal.

"I came up with the Double Decker after talking to some ducks hunters," says Mark Bernegger, founder of Southern Outdoor Technologies. "They need more room to carry their decoys. I also have a few farmer friends who use their Polaris Rangers daily and again, needed more hauling capacity. The Ranger bed has molded stake pockets which lends itself to the Double Decker design."

Currently, the Double Decker is built only for the Ranger. But Bernegger says he is working to produce the rack for other utility vehicle models. The Double Decker comes in two sizes (see contact information below).

The small unit sells for $289.00; the large for $299.00.

Second in this line of products is the Rearender-Xtender. This is a cargo box that adds three feet of new space to a Ranger's cargo box (available for many Ranger models). A support piece for the box slides into the hitch receiver. The Rearender is a useful cargo box extension for hauling 2x4's, ladder stands, hay bales, fence posts, animal feed, and other items too long for a standard bed. The Xtender includes sidewalls and a removable tailgate. Price: $299.00

Third, is the "Back Forty" utility trailer. The Back Forty is a trailer built from 14-gauge, powder-coated steel. The trailer includes stake pockets for temporary sides. It features a two-inch coupler, 1,500 lb. axle with high-speed hubs, off-road tires, and grease fitting on the wheel hub. The Back Forty weighs 152 lbs. It has a 4x6 carrying surface (bedding material not included) and has the capacity to haul 1,550 pounds. Price: $579.00

For more information on these and other products contact: Southern Outdoor Technologies, 580 Churchill Road, West Point, MS 39773; 662-295-5702; www.sportsmanscondo.com

© Copyright 2012 DTN/The Progressive Farmer, A Telvent Brand. All rights reserved.